Squalane oil has gained a prominent place in the skincare world, celebrated for its power to nourish, shield, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, squalane oil viscosity a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. That said, not all squalane oil is the same. Its derivation plays a crucial role in determining its sustainability and environmental impact.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be derived from multiple primary categories: animal-derived and botanical-based materials. The choice between these options carries significant ethical implications.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Historically, squalane oil was commonly sourced from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are known to be natural source of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this method has serious ethical issues. Millions of sharks are harvested annually for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. In addition, the processes used are highly unethical and raise global concerns.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is an ethical and eco-friendly solution. It is sourced from plants, eliminating the need on animal harvesting. This approach addresses animal welfare concerns but also produces a safe and effective product for skincare use.
Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources
Among plant-derived squalane oils, a pair of sources stand out: olive-based squalane oil and squalane oil from sugarcane. While each offer plant-based alternatives, their environmental impact is not the same.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered the superior choice for environmental considerations. Olives are a sustainable resource that are minimally wasteful. What’s more, olive squalane oil offers comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating qualities as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to substantial issues. Sugarcane cultivation requires large quantities of water and often results in waste. Thus, it is less eco-friendly than squalane oil from olives.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers a plethora of advantages for all skin types. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Deep Hydration: Squalane oil absorbs efficiently into the skin, offering effective hydration without clogging pores.
Non-Comedogenic Benefits: Its lightweight texture keeps it a great choice for those with combination skin.
Reduces Fine Lines: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil helps to combat the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while guarding against free radicals.
Gentle Yet Effective: Its mild formulation eases irritation, making it ideal for reactive skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have dry, combination skin, squalane oil delivers remarkable results. By choosing plant-based options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace ethical practices but also give your complexion a highly effective solutions available.